No one can deny that fans of the hit Netflix series Heartstopper are super excited for the show’s return. That’s why many were surprised when young star Kit Connor shared a life update online. Sadly, it’s something too personal and should’ve been done on his own accord. Here’s everything that went down. 

Kit Connor comes out as bisexual

Yesterday, Heartstopper actor Kit Connor (who plays the role of Nick Nelson) came out as bisexual on Twitter. But instead of it being an empowering and joyous moment for the teen actor, his coming out was tainted with dismay and frustration. 

“Back for a minute,” Connor began. “I’m bi. Congrats for forcing an 18-year-old to out himself. I think some of you missed the point of the show. Bye.” 

Last September, the 18-year-old actor also shared another cryptic tweet, and some fans think it’s hinting at the issues surrounding his personal life.

So, how did it all come to this?

The queer-baiting accusations

Following the massive success of the Netflix series Heartstopper, Connor has been accused of queer-baiting by some fans after he was seen holding hands with actress Maia Reficco. The barrage of unfounded queerbaiting accusations prompted him to take a break from Twitter. 

So, what’s “queer-baiting”, exactly?

Queer-baiting refers to a marketing strategy that’s often used in the entertainment scene to lure or tease LGBTQ+ individuals into watching a particular show. It may also refer to celebrities or public figures who capitalize on suspicions they’re part of the LGBTQ+ community for profitable gains. 

Some celebrities who’ve been accused of queer-baiting are Bad Bunny, Billie Eilish, and Harry Styles. In Connor’s case, some fans believed he was only pretending to be queer for Heartstopper. It also didn’t help that so many people were putting out speculations about his sexuality. 

Netizens feel sorry for Connor

Fans of the British actor called out those people who attacked him and made him feel the need to disclose his sexuality. 

Heartstopper author Alice Oseman and fellow actors Joe Locke and Sebastian Croft also have nothing but words of support for Connor. 

Say it louder for the toxic people at the back, Alice!

🥺🥺🥺

Some netizens also expressed how fandoms can be toxic and entitled. And honestly, they’re right. Sure, celebrities are public figures, but they’re entitled to their own privacy like anyone else.

Do we need to abolish the idea of “coming out”?

Meanwhile, one user pointed out that people should end the culture of coming out for good because it’s rooted in heteronormativity, a concept where heterosexuality is commonly perceived as the default sexual orientation. Connor joins the list of public personalities like NikkieTutorials and Rebel Wilson who were pressured to come out.

What happened to them is an obvious example that members of the LGBTQ+ community continue to suffer various forms of harassment, hate, and prejudice. There’s still a long ahead for equality, and hopefully, we can have a world where people can freely express their authentic selves without fear of being judged. 

What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments!